(c.1843) Bronze Medal J-IP-21, John Tyler

Coin Details

Description

The circa 1843 Indian Peace Medal cataloged as Julian IP-21 in standard copper or bronze composition bears the portrait of President John Tyler. This piece shares the same die variety as the bronzed copper version cataloged under the same Julian number but lacks the specialized chemical patination process that produces the darker bronzed finish. The distinction between bronzed and unbronzed examples reflects different production runs or finishing choices at the Philadelphia Mint. The obverse features Tyler's right-facing portrait with the inscription identifying him as president from 1841. The reverse carries the clasped-hands motif with crossed peace pipe and tomahawk and the enduring PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP motto. Without the bronzed treatment, this version displays a lighter, more natural copper-bronze color that may show different toning patterns over time. Tyler-era peace medals were distributed to tribal leaders during treaty negotiations throughout the early 1840s, particularly in the territories west of the Mississippi where relocated eastern tribes were establishing new communities. The standard finish version is the more typically encountered format of the IP-21 die variety.

Rarity Notes

Standard bronze or copper finish. Available in moderate quantities from various restrike periods. Less scarce than the bronzed copper version of the same Julian number.

Cross References

Julian IP-21; PCGS #948436